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Bahamas: Prime Minister of Bahamas Hubert Minnis inaugurated Staniard Creek Bridge in Andros worth $8.8 million.
Office of Prime Minister posted, “On Thursday, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis officially opened the Staniard Creek Bridge.”
The bridge serves as an essential transportation link for the settlement, as it is currently the only access crossing Staniard Creek. Due to structural damage sustained by the existing bridge and the severe environmental damage to the surrounding ecosystem, the bridge’s replacement was a matter of urgency.
“This project is important for the area, as it will regenerate the natural flora and fauna of the creek system,” said Prime Minister Minnis at the official opening ceremony with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works Desmond Bannister.
“It will also be a catalyst for eco-tourism in Andros by providing both locals and tourists with the opportunity to have a close at hand experience of the beauty of the natural creeks ecosystems in Andros.”
The new 180-foot bridge currently sits 500 feet North of the existing bridge. With a 12-foot headroom at high tide, the bridge now allows for the safe passage of boats.
The $8.8 million of the 15-month long construction contract was signed in November 2019 with Bahamas Maritime Construction.
The Staniard Creek Bridge Project also included several works along the surrounding area, which improved water flow issues to the site, the upgrading of existing utility services, the removal of the existing bridge, and dredging of the creek channel, and construction of a new boat ramp and pavilion.
In January 2021, The Prime Minister also officially opened the London Creek Bridge in North Andros and has documented several infrastructure projects still in the works for the island.
A resident Annamae Strachan, commented, “It was a beautiful ceremony; the young people moderated, sang, and played beautiful Bahamian music. Truly history was made.”
